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I NEVER SAID I’ LL BE VICE PRESIDENT TO ANYONE – PETER OBI
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, says he has never stated he would be Vice President to anyone in the 2027 general elections.
The former Anambra State governor had in a recent exclusive interview with New Central TV which SaharaReporters monitored on YouTube, claimed that his ambition was to get people to move Nigeria forward in the next general election in 2027.
Answering questions on the possibility of him accepting to be a vice-presidential candidate in 2027, Obi had said: “Quite frankly, for me, I’m not desperate to be Nigerian president. I am desperate to see Nigeria work. If I see people who can do the work better, I will (consider being Vice President).
“I even have people who say I should not come out in 2027 and I said to them, offer yourself. And we will not put everybody on a scale.”
However, in a post via his official X handle on Saturday, Obi said he was misinterpreted.
He added that some fifth columnists resorted to propaganda, deliberately distorting the narrative of the interview.
“Let me reiterate clearly what I said, which is on record. I do not want to be one of those preoccupied with 2027 while Nigerians are suffering from hunger, poverty, insecurity, and other pressing challenges,” Obi said.
“When I was asked about collaboration, I explicitly stated my openness to working with others, provided their intentions were not centred on state capture. I emphasized my commitment to partnering with those who share my vision for advancing Nigeria’s progress.
“I also made it clear that I remain committed to the Labour Party, and if anyone wishes to negotiate or join forces, they must disclose their true intentions. As I have always maintained, I am not desperate to become president, but I am determined to see Nigeria work.
“Likewise, I am not desperate for any position at all as I believe I can make contributions as I am already doing without occupying any. When 2027 arrives, if I decide to run for any office, it will not be with those whose sole aim is state capture or merely winning an election. I want them to explain how we will ensure that no child is left behind and how we will bring millions of out-of-school children back into classrooms, ensure healthy living and pull people out of poverty.
“My statement was unequivocal, and I am genuinely surprised by the misrepresentation of my words. For the avoidance of doubts, I never stated at any time that I would be vice president to anyone and it’s unequivocal. I have consistently maintained that I am open to working with those committed to building a new Nigeria.
“My commitment to Nigeria remains steadfast, and I even believe it is possible to contribute to its progress without occupying any office as I am already doing.”
